PR – 1706 – Officer Discharged Weapon

Carissa Katekaru PR 17-06

Media Relations Coordinator/Public Information Officer

On February 18, 2017 at 6:49 AM, a North Richland Hills officer initiated a traffic stop in the 6300 block of Davis Boulevard. After the vehicle stopped, the officer approached from the passenger side of the vehicle to speak with the driver. It was reported that the driver without warning, made a sudden lunge towards the officer, while reaching behind the passenger seat for a weapon. In fear for their life, the officer discharged one round from their duty weapon. The round however, did not injure the driver. The driver began complying with officer commands. Additional units arrived on scene, and the driver of the vehicle was placed in to custody. Officers observed a machete located behind the passenger seat.

The officer has been placed on administrative leave, as per policy, while an internal investigation is conducted. The driver of the vehicle was transported to the North Richland Hills jail, charges pending.